A Detailed Look at Lazy Dog's Seared Ahi Tuna Salad Calories
For those managing their dietary intake, understanding the calorie count of restaurant meals is essential. The Lazy Dog Seared Ahi Tuna Salad is a vibrant and flavorful option that is relatively low in calories compared to many other entrées. At 500 calories per serving, it fits well within many daily calorie goals and offers a balanced macronutrient profile.
Nutritional Breakdown
Beyond just the total calorie count, knowing the macronutrient composition of a meal provides a clearer picture of its health benefits. The Seared Ahi Tuna Salad from Lazy Dog offers a balanced mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, with the majority of its calories coming from fat and carbohydrates.
Here is a breakdown based on available nutrition data:
- Total Calories: 500
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 40g (Net carbs: 31g)
- Protein: 33g
- Fiber: 9g
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 2540mg
It is important to note the high sodium content of this dish. At 2,540 mg, it accounts for more than the entire recommended daily intake for many individuals. This is a crucial detail for those monitoring their sodium levels.
Deconstructing the Salad's Ingredients
The flavor profile and calorie count are directly linked to the specific components of the dish. The Lazy Dog Seared Ahi Tuna Salad includes several elements that contribute to its overall nutritional value:
- Furikake-crusted yellowfin tuna: This is the primary protein source, providing lean protein and healthy fats, particularly omega-3s. The furikake crust adds flavor and a slight textural component.
- Field greens: A base of mixed greens provides a low-calorie source of vitamins and minerals.
- Carrots and radish: These vegetables add a crisp texture and additional nutrients.
- Avocado: Contributes healthy monounsaturated fats and creaminess, which increases the overall calorie count and fat content.
- Pickled cucumbers: Provides a tangy, refreshing contrast to the richness of the tuna.
- Peanut ponzu vinaigrette: A significant contributor to both the total fat and sugar content. This flavorful dressing is a key factor in the overall caloric value.
- Soy dipping sauce: Served on the side, this adds more flavor but also contributes to the high sodium level.
Customization and Calorie Reduction Strategies
For those looking to enjoy this salad with fewer calories, several modifications can be made:
- Ask for dressing on the side: By controlling the amount of peanut ponzu vinaigrette you use, you can significantly reduce the sugar and fat content.
- Hold the avocado: While delicious, avocado adds a substantial amount of fat and calories. Skipping this can bring down the total.
- Go light on the dipping sauce: Since the soy dipping sauce contributes heavily to the sodium content, using less or skipping it can be beneficial.
- Request extra greens: Increasing the low-calorie base can make the meal more filling without adding many calories.
Comparison of Lazy Dog Salads
To put the Seared Ahi Tuna Salad's nutrition in context, here is a comparison with other salad options available at Lazy Dog based on their nutritional information:
| Salad Name | Calories (approx.) | Protein (approx.) | Notes on Macronutrients |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seared Ahi Tuna Salad | 500 cal | 33g | Moderate fat and carbs, high sodium. |
| Thai Chicken Salad | 440 cal | Not specified | Lighter option, includes spicy-sweet peanut vinaigrette. |
| Chicken Lettuce Wraps | 580 cal | Not specified | Technically not a salad, but a low-calorie alternative served in lettuce spears. |
The comparison shows that the Seared Ahi Tuna Salad is a moderately high-calorie choice among the healthier options, mostly due to its higher fat and sugar content from the dressings and avocado. For an even lower-calorie option, the Thai Chicken Salad is a suitable alternative.
Conclusion
In summary, the Lazy Dog Seared Ahi Tuna Salad is a satisfying and flavorful meal containing 500 calories. While it offers a good amount of protein, it is worth noting its high sodium content and moderate fat and sugar levels, largely from the dressings and avocado. By requesting modifications such as dressing on the side, it is possible to reduce the caloric load and sodium intake, making it a more customizable and health-conscious choice. When compared to other salads on the Lazy Dog menu, it offers a great balance of nutrients for its caloric value, though other options may be lighter depending on your dietary goals.
For further details on Lazy Dog's nutritional information, you can consult the official PDF guide often linked on their website or third-party nutritional databases.
